The Reunion Project – 300 and Counting (8/17)

I figured one of the challenges I’d face would be living so far away from where all the action will be. Technology has brought me a lot closer, but I can’t exactly bump into someone at the mall or a restaurant and chat. As you might expect, almost all my communication has been online or via telephone.

Despite all that distance, I’ve found a lot of people with connections to Michigan, which is now my home. We’ve got a handful of classmates spread across this state (although I haven’t contacted all of them yet). There are also a handful of them next door in Ohio–which could be fun as college football season begins.

And, during my search, I contacted an ex-spouse of a classmate who shared an amazing story. He used to work in Detroit, and told me about some of the clubs he would frequent downtown and along the riverfront in the 70s, describing some of the big bands, jazz artists, and others he’d seen play–he even saw Elvis Presley once.

Another classmate was here briefly for work recently and we managed to catch up. He has a job that’s even crazier and more exciting than mine. And another friend who moved away when we were teens is planning to come here for a few days as part of the company he now runs. Plus, at least three other people from high school and college either lived here at some point or still live here now.

So, I guess–in theory–there’s a great story that awaits the next time I make a call or send an email. But fortunately–or unfortunately, depending on your viewpoint–I’m running out of opportunities. Just minutes before typing this, I managed to locate my 300th classmate, which means we have fewer than 100 to go. Even if we can’t find quite everyone, I think that’s a big enough guest list to start planning the event.

*About this blog: Scott is a 1988 graduate of Princess Anne High School in Virginia Beach, Va. and is blogging about his experience ahead of his 25th high school reunion in 2013. You can contact Scott at 248-945-9950 or via email at sryan@cbs.com. Please put “The Reunion Project” in the subject line.

Scott Ryan

Hi there! Each morning, I write much of the news that you hear on WWJ. Despite the early hours, it’s usually fun working amid the “controlled chaos” in our newsroom. When I’m not at work, I like to spend time with my wife and kids. My hobbies inc...